Lately it’s been really cold in Los Angeles. Nothing like the blizzards they’ve been having on the East Coast but very cold (brrrrr) by Southern California standards. These low temperatures triggered my mood for soup. I’ve been especially craving green pea soup.
Growing up, I didn’t like green peas. As the years went by my palate gained a taste for them. They are now a healthy staple in my diet. I love their vibrant color, sweet taste and starchy texture.
I hope you like this spring-inspired soup as much as I do..
When in season, I use fresh peas. Today, I am using frozen organic peas. For the success of this recipe, It is important to adjust the amount of mint to your taste.
Spring Pea Soup with Mint
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 small onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves peeled and smashed
- 2 cups organic chicken stock
- 3 sprigs fresh mint
- ¼ tsp French four spices (see below to make your own mix)
- 2 Slices crisped prosciutto for garnish
Instructions
- In a sauce pan, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Add chopped onions and garlic and cook until soft and translucent.
- Add peas, half the chicken stock, salt and black pepper. Bring to boil then lower the heat and cook for about three minutes.
- Turn off stove, add mint and puree mixture using an immersion blender.
- If using a counter top blender, transfer mixture to blender and puree.
- Transfer soup back to pot and add more chicken stock if needed. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for two minutes. Do not overcook the soup.
- To crisp prosciutto, heat a non-stick pan over medium high heat. Add prosciutto slices. Cook until the edges curl and the slice become crispy and golden.
- Serve soup in bowls with a garnish of crispy prosciutto and a drizzle of fruity olive oil.
- **Note: you can mix your own French four spices by combining: 1 tbs ground white pepper, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp grated nutmeg and ¼ tsp ground cloves. Keep in an airtight container for up to six months.
- *The flavor of this soup is enhanced on the second day.